Monday, August 2, 2010
Welcome Newbies August 2010
To become acquainted with the class blog, please post a brief initial introduction. How do you feel about reading, and why did you choose to take this course? Remember, blog posts need to conform to the rules of Standard Written English, so no "txt speek" please. And most importantly, you must include your name at the end of each post in order to receive credit.
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Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Holly Denton, and I am currently in your second block class. I chose to take the course because I am very passionate about literature. Also, I plan on majoring in English in college and pursuing a career in that field. I absolutely love reading, and I believe that it is a crucial part of life. If we don't read the works of those that came before us and those that are around now, we will never be able to fully understand literature as a whole. I'm very excited about this class and look forward to the year ahead!
-Holly Denton, Second Block
Hello!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Cassie and I am in fourth block. I love to read, and I am up to read just about anything, as long as it can keep my attention. I am taking this course because it is the next step up from AP Language and Composition, and although I fear challenging courses, I absolutely love taking them. I also find literature intriguing. One can learn so much, just by cracking open the spine of a novel.
Cassie Rall
Hello Ms. Hurst!
ReplyDeleteI absolutely love to read and write; it's simple as that! Last year in AP English, I loved the variety of literature I experienced by authors Mark Twain, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Herman Melville. I love to dive into a good book on a rainy night and just get lost in the wonderful imagery, language, and context. Currently, I am the Editor-In-Chief of the Fort Lauderdale High School Newspaper, The Navigator, which contributes to my love of writing. I have to admit, I enjoy writing essays; I feel as if I can just open up and express my thoughts and feelings without boundaries through an essay. I hope to become an English teacher as well, and by taking AP English classes, I can become prepared for the road ahead in college.
-Evan Jackson, Block Two
Ive been a "book junkie" since before I can remember. I become enthralled in books that have a lot of imagery and that really know how to make you think. My favorite types of books are romance novels that have a setting dated far back in the past. I really like the way those types of stories are worded. It shows that the writer took their time to compose something beautiful and not just an "urban book" that sounds just like the next one. I chose to take your class because I wanted an ACTUAL CHALLENGE. I feel as if I've been coasting through high school and not really being pushed. So I hope you'll push me to a higher level!
ReplyDeleteEbonie Wells (Block Four)
Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Piper and I am so excited to be in your fourth block class! I've never been an avid reader on my own, but I have a deep admiration for literature that moves me to genuinely enjoy it when I do make the time. Reading stimulates the mind and allows for a unique opportunity to explore other worlds and beliefs beyond your own. I recently took AP English Language and Composition; a class that I thoroughly adored and learned so much from. I am not only taking on AP Literature because I want to continue my education in this subject, but because I am dedicated and passionate about challenging myself in the pursuit and love of learning.
Piper Miller
Hello Ms. Hurst!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Gennette Norvelus and I am in your fourth block English Lit. Reading is absolutely one of my favorite past times. Usually it's the first thing I will do if I have any free time on my hands. I love to read books that tell more than just a story, I enjoy learning from it and maybe using it as a example in real life. The reasons behind me picking your class and not just any other class is because Im tired of just taking honors or regular classes. I feel as if I really need a class that will prepare me for college and give a little tatse on how difficult it will be. Not only that but I also need a teacher thats going to be strict and hard on me, because I know it will definitely help me. Im kind of hesitant because I know that this is a challenge, but its definitely a challenge that i hope to conquer.
Hello Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Katherine and I am currently taking your Second Block AP English Literature class. Reading hasn't always been my strong point, but when i do find a book that devours my attention I won't rest til I have completed it. The reason i chose to take your course was due to the fact that I heard it's a challenge, and I am prepared to overcome it. Not only would it be a challenge, but it's subsequent to AP English Language and Composition, which I enjoyed greatly. Hopefully this class will be the true challenge I was searching for.
~Katherine Carrazana, Block Two
Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Danielle Malcolm, and I am in your fourth block class. I decided to take your AP English Literature course because I like to read and, I am interested in reading and analyzing novels that I would not normally choose on my own. I am also interested in improving my writing and grammer skills.
-Danielle Malcolm
Hola! My name is Vanessa Whitney and I will be in your second block class. I've always enjoyed reading when I have down time in class, or whenever I'm bored at home I'll crack open a good book and let the words whisk my imagination away. I would say I am a creative person, and I love reading the works of other creative people past and present because not all imaginations are the same so every time I read about something an author wrote from the heart I think its a way to get to know how his/her mind works. I'm taking this class because, although this is senior year for me, I figured I could still rack up some more college credit to help benefit my future education. I'm also taking this class because I'm always open for something new and intriguing, so hopefully I came to the right place. :)
ReplyDeleteMs. Hurst
ReplyDeleteI am quite particular when it comes to reading. I do not read as much as I should primarily because I cannot find anything good to read (but perhaps I am just looking in the wrong places). On the rare occasion I do find a text that catches my interest I enthusiastically admit to loving it, and if not, I remain disinterested. For example, I love the Great Gatsby but dislike Billy Budd. I do not hate any book, per se, nor do I complain endlessly about it. As long as it is a good read, I will be happy. I enjoy adding to class discussions and often have lots to say!
I chose this class, with hopes of having you as a teacher, because of amazing reports I have heard from my peers. I am especially eager to learn through your projected methods of teaching.
I think I’m going to like this class :)
Jeannie Matthews
Dear Ms. Hurst
ReplyDeleteIf there is any label I take pride in it is that of being a bookworm. For me, reading is a way of revisint the past and transforming yourself into anything. I wanted to take this class because I knew that it would increase my exposure to works I would have not picked up otherwise. I also wanted to take this class to continue to improve on my writing skills before I attend college. I am one of those students who works riduculously hard so for me this class seems like a complete challenge intellectually. More then anything I look forward to improving my manner of thinking rather then just working towards a grade. I am really glad that I have you for a teacher and I am excited to see what you have instore for us.
Sylvia Percovich
Hi Ms.Hurst!
ReplyDeleteI've always enjoyed reading because I feel like it's an easy and enjoyable way to not only expand your knowledge , but also the way you think about things . More so , I love the way that a good book is able to help you experience or visualize new things . The right choice of diction can make you feel like your actually in the story or even the character . With that being said , I do prefer fiction . I love to do research and that sort of thing as well , but having a good plot and interesting character is what really grabs me . As far as genres , I really enjoy a good thriller , suspense, or mystery novel .
Hopefully , from what I wrote above , you can tell that I love literature . Hence , was the reason that I chose this class . I'm really looking forward to it , especially since I love creative writing and things along that line , which you seem to embrace.
Shanika Fredericks (Fourth Block)
Dear Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Cheyenne Hall. I am a student in your fourth block class. I am going to be honest and tell you that I am not a huge fan of reading and writing. However, there are a few books that can catch my attention once in a while. I chose this class for a chance to enhance my writing skills, read new literature, and to help colleges notice me. I am looking forward to learning what you are going to teach!
Hello my most eccentric AP English teacher (Ms. Judith Hurst :D) and class!
ReplyDeleteSo, I am Bryana A. Bell and I will admit to formally being a bit of a skeptic in taking AP English Literature. If Dr. Beauliue had not initially exposed me to novels such as The Scarlet Letter and The Crucible, oh! Of course The Great Gatsby as well, my personal favorite being a tie between the latter and The Scarlet Letter, I am not so sure I would've been enthusiastic at all to take this class. However, after discovering that I could be interested in literature again, I am edgar to find something more. I've adored the art of writing and vivacious story telling since I was a munchkin. Though I evolved since the Harry Potter series (yet it is still an all time favorite) and on my own time found interesting novels such as The Five People You Meet in Heaven and The Devil (not a satanic book of course, simply a biography on the origins of a demonic figure throughout the history of human belief), I know you could provide more. Will I study literature in college? I must honestly say I am not sure yet, but I would love to keep an open mind.
Bryana Bell (4th block)
Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteTo be completely honest reading is not one of my favorite things to do. I'm the kind of person who would prefer to work on a calculus question for hours, opposed to reading a book for 30 minutes. With that being said, I signed up for AP Literature because I would like to read more books and discover their deeper meaning through class discussions. Also, with one more year of AP English under my wing, I hope to better my writing skills and vocabulary for application essays and college.
Amy Marshall
Block 2
Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteI can't say i'm a huge fan of writing essays, but I can admit that I have a soft spot for literature. Whether it's a simple piece of fiction designed for mere entertainment, or a book that forces one to dig deep into the text, I enjoy most of everything. Ultimately, i'm really here to challenge myself and to gain as an individual.
Alex Upp (Fourth Block)
Judith,
ReplyDeleteThough I've known you for years, I have yet been given the opportunity to have a class with you. I am very much looking forward to exploring literature in ways that I have not before with texts that I would have otherwise overlooked. And though I've always loved reading, I hope to expand my horizons and not only work towards a passing grade on the AP exam but gain a more mature perspective on literature in general. I'm excited to see what challenges lay ahead! (:
-Maria Savarese block: 4
Reading was always an essential pastime to me, and when I was younger, one would find it rare to see me without some sort of novel that I would cast myself away in with every free minute I could uncover, although as I moved forward in time and discovered several other creative pursuits, reading was nudged from the forefront of my mind. English and literature classes have always been there as, in my opinion, vital ways to reawaken the fascination that everyone has, regardless of literacy, of where words can take you, and always have served as my favorite academic subjects. This course seems to be the perfect next step in a continued ambition for literary exploration, and I’m looking forward to the journey and results!
ReplyDelete-Matt Brown, Block 4
Hello,
ReplyDeleteThis is Jalina Pittman, I am in your second block. I am eager to have my thoughts and feelings molded by the minds of great women and men thinkers of past and present literature. I honestly signed up for the class for AP credit only to have that reason changed as you explained the deeper purpose for reading. I love a challenge and my mind is ready to challenge different thoughts and to read past certain vernacular of past centuries. I hope to gain from this class greater analysis of not only whatever I read but who I am in response to opposing views. I enjoy writing and reading ,as I've learned, is simply the muse for the writing tool, that rush of suspense and the beat of poetic rhythm is an experience that I have and will have for years to come. I love to read and even more I love a challenge. I'm excited for this year!
Hi Judith,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Cody Creagan, and I am currently a student in your second block class. In regard to your first question, reading is not one of my strong points, but I look forward to improving my skills this year by taking your course. I enjoy reading interesting books that don’t drag out the story line and become boring and dull to read. I chose to take your course because I enjoyed Dr. Beaulieu's coarse and thought that this would be the next step in understanding the English language and its literature.
-Cody Creagan, Block 2
Judith,
ReplyDeleteI personally enjoy reading, it creates an escape and lets me relax in an alternate reality, however, weather I like it or not, I'm going to have to read in class and in life.
"A happy life consists not in the absence, but in the mastery of hardships" - Helen Keller.
I love a good challenge, I will take you're word that this will be a rigorous class, and I'm entering it in the mind set that I am here to learn and that if I pass the exam then that is a plus. I took this class because no matter who you are or where you live understanding literary works allows you to grow in every aspect of your life.
Chandler Gelb (4th block)
Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteI have read for pleasure as far back as I can remember when I was young I lived on a sail boat and when I was bored I learned to pick up a book and enjoy what it had in store. I chose to take this course because literature is somthing that I feel can bring people together and help them relate, it can be abstract and thats what I love about it. I understand this is going to be a challenging course but I am willing to put my best effort and gain as much as possible.
-Andrea Siluk (Block 2)
Dear Judith,
ReplyDeleteMy name is William, you will find me in the cold, dark, lonely corner your 4th block class.
I have always been a person who delights in expressing his deepest emotions with the most aestheticly pleasing words in the world. I've always been interested in extremely complex literature, so far the most impressive book I have read has been the bible.
My goal in life is to be one of the best song writers in the world. I am currently on my way on recording a studio album but I really want to be able to write more ice breaking lyrics to make a change in the music industry. And I know that taking this class could make a huge difference in my life that would help me be fruitful for the rest of it.
So now you know, I will not take this class for granted...!!!
;)
CHEERS!
~William Arthur Weeks
Dear Mrs. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Eddie, and as far as I can remember reading it has been my favorite subject in both education and for pleasure. I hope that your class will be fulfilling in both aspects but from what I have heard from your past students, I have no doubt this will be the case.
Looking forwards to a great year,
-Edward McKelligett
Hi, my name's Mack Kennedy and i'm looking forward to taking AP Literature with you this year. For pretty much my entire life in school, English classes have been my favorites, last year i took AP english with Dr. Beaulieu and got to read a lot of great books such as The Great Gatsby and The Crucible. I try to read a lot outside of school among my favorite writers are Kurt Vonnegut and Bret Easton Ellis. My favorite books of all time are either Catch 22, American Psycho, Bonfire of the Vanities, and Julius Caesar. I'm most excited this year to read Brave New World and Hamlet.
ReplyDeleteHi!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Georgette Taluy, friends and family call me Jojo or George--which ever one is fine--and I really LOVE reading! Its one of the things I've enjoyed doing since I was very little. For future plans I want to be an author and I really think that instead of just writing and hoping that I get published some day, I should just get acquainted to literature and its history because the things I have read have been a great influence on my writing and I think it has helped me become a better writer. So that is basically the reason behind my choosing this course. Also one of my favorite books of ALL times would have to be Ayn Rand's "Anthem" I really love the idea of a man setting himself apart from what is considered normal by society. I am also very exited to read Brave New World and for my independent reading I'm going to try to get a hold of A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess.
--Georgette Taluy
HEY JUDITH!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Dakota and I switched from your second block to your fourth block. I ADORE reading and I try to read as much as I can. I love reading fiction (The Great Gatsby, A Land Remembered, etcetera) and poetry (Rilke, Emily Dickinson, etcetera). My brother, also an avid reader, has been encouraging me to read A Brave New World for a while now and I look forward to cracking it open. As for why I am taking your class... besides being interested in the books that you chose for us to read, I want to challenge myself and maybe enrich my life with this course.
Just one of the musicians,
Dakota Edelstein
Hi Mrs. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Tatjana Ligtbourn, english is not one of my favorit subjects but I know that I am a very good writer. I do like to read but not really the old stuff that they have us read in school. I kind of over analyze when it comes to some pieces of work, and on others I don't do enough. My goal in your class it to pretty much learn and stay awake. I took your class because I wanted to prepare myself for the college work, although I've heard that the work you give is harder than the work they do in college, I'm still up for the challenge.
Tatjana Lightbourn (Block 2)
Dear Ms.Hurst
ReplyDeleteThis is Shanice Traylor and Im currently a student in your 2nd block.English is not my strongest subject, but I like to read because it's essential in life. Honestly, I did not select this AP Literature class.It's pretty lucid that we've already started off on the wrong foot so to resolve any further matters I'm going to change my class tomorrow as soon as possible.
Shanice Traylor {Block 2}
Hi Mrs. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is James, i'm in your second block class. Honestly reading and literature is not something I like a lot but if something interest me I might enjoy it. I do look foward to reading Hamlet. I signed up for AP Lit because I was happy what i did in Ap English last year and I would like to improve my writing skills further.
James Godet
Hello Judith,
ReplyDeleteI am so excited to be in your class! At first I have to say I was a bit skeptical but now I can't wait to get started in your class. I look foward to writing and reading, and finding the deeper meaning in literature, but I don't think I'm very good at at. I'm ready to work hard and to learn all the things that you have to teach. English isn't my strong suit, and honestly I didn't want to take it at first. But I'm up for the challenge and don't want to drop it just because its going to be hard, I find that a lame excuse. I'm excited to get to know you as my teacher and excited for you to get to know me.
Sarah Hall
Hello,
ReplyDeleteThis is Jalina Pittman, I am in your second block. I am eager to have my thoughts and feelings molded by the minds of great women and men thinkers of past and present literature. I honestly signed up for the class for AP credit only to have that reason changed as you explained the deeper purpose for reading. I love a challenge and my mind is ready to challenge different thoughts and to read past certain vernacular of past centuries. I hope to gain from this class greater analysis of not only whatever I read but who I am in response to opposing views. I enjoy writing and reading ,as I've learned, is simply the muse for the writing tool, that rush of suspense and the beat of poetic rhythm is an experience that I have and will have for years to come. I love to read and even more I love a challenge. I'm excited for this year!
- Jalina Pittman Block 2
Hello Ms.Hurst,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Phillip King, I am in your fourth block. I enjoy reading interesting and new books to an extent. It does not have to be action or adventure to please my likings, just as long as the book does not drag out a plot, which in turn makes it hard for myself to stay focused. I heard you were a great teacher, and thanks to the prep from Dr.B, I think I am ready to take your class. I signed up for AP Lit, to turn my weaknesses into strengths, and also to ready myself for the next step.
-Phillip King
Hello there!!!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Shamica Shim. Im in your second block class and I chose to take AP English Literature because I strongly believed that my knowledge on literature and how to analyze it could use a little help. I am also up for a challenge at any given time and I was told by Dr. B that your class was a big challenge, which gave me an even bigger incentive to take your class.
Ready whenever you are for the challenge!!!
-Shamica
Greetings!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Isaac Amor and I am in your second block class. Recently, I have stumbled upon a number of books in which made me feel; similar to the way music gives me the same feeling of ever-present solace in the world around me. I hope to learn how to portray my own feelings with as much depth as the writers I have come across. Please, be my guide.
stay happy and healthy,
Isaac Amor
Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteI am Eric Marshall from your second block class. I enjoy reading, but I am not a very strong writer. This class will be probably be very dfficult for me, as I did not take AP English last year. I chose to take this course in order to challenge myself and become a better writer.
Eric Marshall
Ms. Hurst, from an early age I have always loved reading. With that, I have always been disappointed in the fact that english classes didn't provide reading material I found interesting or in some cases, didn't provide reading (novels) at all. I am looking forward to be given readings that challenge me in one way or another, which is the main reason I'm taking your class; to be challenged. I also look forward to be placed in a setting more similar to what I'll experience next year in college, rather than digressing back to my freshman year. It may not be easy but I'm excited for the year ahead.
ReplyDeleteArien Tripp (Block 2)
Hello Ms. Hurst!
ReplyDeleteTo be honest, I am not the type of person who squeals with excitement at the thought of reading, but there have been exceptions. While some books made it easier for me to stray from reading, others have grasped my attention. Seeing how you really enjoyed the text from your reading list, makes me look forward to the months ahead. I decided to take the AP English Literature class because I knew it would be different than AP English Composition and Language. Unlike the other course, AP Lit involves poetry, perhaps more than I like, but it is something I would like to change. Poetry is difficult because it involves one to delve into their mind and find the true reason behind the text. I am looking forward to your class and poetry here I come!
Cinthya Castro
Hola Senorita Hurst!
ReplyDeleteThis is Tatiana, and in case it's slipped your mind, I am in your second block. Short, sweet, and to the point is the goal here, so...
I love words, I love the English language. I write profusely and read constantly. I plan on majoring in creative writing in college so this course really is my bread and butter. I don't mind hard work, and I love to talk, so I apologize in advance for that one. I look forward to the year of intricate analysis we will be pursuing.
See you tomorrow,
Tatiana Becker
Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteI am not the person that would consider myself the avid reader or a bookworm per se, but by taking your class I plan to learn more about the what, why, and purpose of a literary work. Too be able to read a book, notice the symbolism and apply and compare it to our world is my ultimate goal. I want to be able to see how, why, and what makes an author view a topic and how that may differ drastically from my views and see if a compromise can be made.
Brian Cavanaugh
Good Evening Ms. Hurst,
ReplyDeleteI am your lovely student from your soon-to-be-favorite second block class, Francheska Periche. When it comes to literature, I am capable of applying myself although I am not interested this certain subject. I'm the type of person that has to be perfect no matter what even though it doesn't end up that way. I am more likely to engage myself more so that I can understand to the best of my best abilities. I look forward to working with you.
Have a great night,
Francheska Periche (Block 2)
Hey Ms. Hurst!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Vashti Powell and I am currently a student in your fourth block class. I was born and raised in Pembroke Pines, FL to Reverend Dr. D. L. Powell and First Lady Cynthia Powell. It actually took them 12 years to have me so they call me their miracle baby. I started off wanting to be a doctor, but immediately figured out that blood and I would never get along so I moved on to law, which is the exact reason why I came to Fort Lauderdale High. It has been a great experience for me and has taught me that although I love the emotion and excitement that the courtroom brings, law is not really for me. I've always loved to be in front of the camera whether it's singing, acting, or being the school's morning announcement head anchor so I've decided to pursue a career in communications. I love to read, but it has to be something that is intriguing and catches my attention so sometimes it's hard for me to read the material given in class, but I have a feeling that your curriculum will keep me awake and interested. I am definitely looking forward to a great senior year; then I can finally close the high school chapter of my life and begin the chapter entitled, college!
Vashti Powell
Hello!!!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Sue-Ann Shaw, and I am one of your fourth block students. However I am the type of person that loves a challenge and I love to be the one to come out on top, so I would consider myself competitive. I am a senior this year, and I’m hoping that this year will be very fun but educational. I love to read interesting books, books that will keep me going and entertained. I decided to take this class because it was the next class up from AP English and Composition. I am intrigued by this class and hope to have a great year.
Sue-Ann Shaw
Hi, I am Brandon Richards and I am in your second block class. I took this class to challenge myself because I believe it will indeed be challenging. I also took this class because of the readings, because I do have interest in reading, whether it be in class or on the side outside of school when i have time. I believe that I will enjoy this experience!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great bunch of excellent students I have!
ReplyDelete:-)